The rash, which takes the form of dozens of tiny red bumps close together, is commonly known as 'chicken skin' but its official name is Keratosis pilaris. It can look like you've got embarrassing permanent goose pimples, but there's nothing to worry about, the Liverpool Echo reports.

Should I be worried? It's a common and harmless condition and there's no need to see your GP unless it's causing you concern. Keratosis pilaris is not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person. Usually, skin improves in the summer and gets worse during winter months or dry conditions.

Where on the body can you get 'chicken skin'? Keratosis pilaris "most commonly affects the back of the upper arms, and sometimes the buttocks and the front of the thighs. Less often, the forearms and upper back may be affected. There are also rare variants of keratosis pilaris that can affect the eyebrows, face and scalp, or the entire body."

What causes red bumps on the arms? The condition runs in families and is inherited from your parents. If one parent has the condition, there's a one in two chance that their child will inherit it. According to a medical website, "Keratosis pilaris occurs when too much keratin builds up in the skin's hair follicles. Keratin is a protein found in the tough outer layer of skin, which causes the surface of the skin to thicken, hence the name "keratosis". The excess keratin blocks the hair follicles with plugs of hard, rough skin. The tiny plugs widen the pores, giving the skin a spotty appearance."

How to treat it ► Use non-soap cleansers rather than soap. ordinary soap may dry your skin out and make the condition worse. ► Moisturise your skin when it's dry. Your GP or pharmacist can recommend a suitable cream, although moisturisers and emollients only reduce the dryness of your skin and won't cure the rash; creams containing salicylic acid, lactic acid or urea are thought to be the most effective. ► Gently rub the skin with an exfoliating foam pad or pumice stone to exfoliate the rough skin. Be careful not to scrub too hard. ► Take lukewarm showers rather than hot baths.

Recent Messages ()

Please rate before posting your Review

OR PROCEED WITHOUT REGISTRATION

Share on Twitter

SIGN IN WITH

Refrain from posting comments that are obscene, defamatory or inflammatory, and do not indulge in personal attacks, name calling or inciting hatred against any community. Help us delete comments that do not follow these guidelines by marking them offensive. Let's work together to keep the conversation civil.